Soon, smoke will be in the air as South Carolina’s foresters, farmers and other land managers begin a very busy part of their year.

Traditional controlled burning season is fast approaching and is the time when the ancient tool of controlled fire (good fire) is put to use for the benefit of all South Carolinians. Controlled burning (igniting forest fires under controlled conditions) has many benefits including reducing the risk of wildfire (bad fire), preparing land for planting, controlling diseases and undesirable plants and enhancing wildlife habitat.

When Debbie Crenshaw looked across the Lancaster High School cafeteria on Dec. 19, she smiled at the sight of smiling children.

But for Crenshaw, a volunteer for Operation Blue and Gold Santa, it was an apprehensive smile, at best.

Yes, a group of Lancaster High School student-athletes, along with the Bruins booster club, Lancaster Children’s Home, several businesses and HOPE in Lancaster, made sure the night was special for some of the county’s neediest families.